LETTER: Regier has earned re-election against worthy opponent

It’s a shame, in this day and age, to have to pick between two very talented candidates for public office, namely, Keith Regier and Don Kaltschmidt, who are running for Senate District 8 in the June 7 primary.

Don K is affable, smart, educated, talented and ready to serve. In my discussions with Don, he has assured me he is not a “responsible Republican” but rather a “rational conservative.” He is against the water compact and for the transfer of lands from federal control to the state of Montana just for starters.

Even though he says he is willing to compromise in some things, he would never compromise on the core values of conservative thought. Even though it is rumored he has received the support of Bruce Tutvedt (the proverbial kiss of death), Don tells me he does not embrace Bruce’s liberal tendencies.

On the other hand we have Keith Regier who has served four terms in the House of Representatives. He is smart, well-spoken and a proven leader who ascended to the position of House majority leader. He is a confirmed conservative who has led the fight to try to stem the tide of destructive policies emanating out of Washington, D.C., and supported by Gov. Bullock that have relegated Montana to 48th in wage base in our country. He fought hard against the insanity of the water compact as well as fighting for our individual liberties in so many other areas. Truly he is a proven commodity.

Even though I like and admire Don, I truly believe we cannot throw out the demonstrable performance of excellence Keith has so aptly displayed. Times are just too critical to jump away from a seasoned professional with proven, verifiable performance standards. I suggest a vote for Keith and encouragement to Don to remain involved. Certainly we need both of these men in our fight for the future of Montana.

—Mark Agather, Kalispell